Tai Chi

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Tai Chi

Tai Chi is
a form of qigong (energy cultivation). Based in martial arts movements, Tai Chi
provides training in proper body mechanics and natural alignment. It fosters a
relaxed body and a peaceful state of mind, which are the essential ingredients
for cultivating healthy energy or qi. Even
though Tai Chi is slow and gentle and does not leave you breathless, it
involves the key components of fitness, namely muscle strength, flexibility,
balance and even aerobic conditioning. Meditation in motion at its best!

The
many benefits of practicing Tai Chi have been well documented.
Universities such as Harvard, Emory, and the University of Southern California
among others have found that Tai Chi can:

Tones muscles without straining

Ease back pain

Sharpen mental focus

Provide cardio-respiratory
conditioning

Improve balance

Help with weight loss

Promote correct body posture
I

Increase flexibility

Reduce joint pain

Improve memory, concentration and
digestion

Slow bone loss

Improve cardiac health

Reduce anxiety and ease
depression

Boost the immune system

Reduce risks of falls

Reduce asthma and allergy
reactions

Improve coordination

Increase breathing capacity

Lower high blood pressure and
heart rate

Stimulate circulation

Assist mental well-being through
meditative form

What
is a fan form?
The Tai Chi Fan Form is in part, a martial art, using the fan as a weapon. There
is a long history in Asia of such use by both men and women. For women, of
course, it is particularly effective, as it involves an easily accessible
'feminine' object. This particular fighting fan form is less aggressive, more meditative
than most, while still remaining a viable form of combat. During the routine,
the fan provides a great focal point outside the body which nonetheless allowing
us to connect more deeply with our physical self. It also lends

a level of aesthetic
pleasure to an exercise that is thoroughly unique.